Apply eTA

Welcome to Kenya

THE ETA ALLOWS YOU TO ENTER KENYA FOR LEISURE, TOURISM, BUSINESS, CONFERENCE, WORK, DIPLOMAT, RELIGIOUS and TRANSIT PURPOSES

Apply for Kenya's eTA to Travel Without a Visa from 2024

Experience an Effortless Journey to Kenya in 2024! President William Ruto has recently unveiled a significant update for international travellers: starting January 2024, Kenya has transitioned from traditional visa processes to a more efficient electronic travel authorization (eTA) system. This innovative change applies to all nationalities, simplifying your entry into the vibrant and diverse landscapes of Kenya. Stay ahead with the latest travel updates and prepare for a seamless Kenyan adventure.

The Kenya eTA is an electronic travel permit issued by the government of Kenya. It is a mandatory requirement for travellers visiting Kenya. The eTA can be obtained online through this website, eliminating the need to visit the embassy. Kenya offers various eTA types, including business, tourist, and others. The maximum stay allowed is up to 90 days, irrespective of the purpose of the visit

What can I do in Kenya with an eTA?

With an eTA for Kenya, you can explore the vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes for up to 90 days:

The eTA grants you access to various purposes, including:

  1. Tourism: You can enjoy activities like going on a safari vacation or participating in amateur sports.

  2. Visiting friends and/or family members in Kenya: Experience warm hospitality, immerse in local traditions, create lasting memories.

  3. Business trips: This category covers attending business meetings, conferences, or trade fairs.

  4. Medical treatments: Access quality healthcare services while enjoying Kenya's natural beauty.

  5. Work: In certain cases, an eTA allows individuals to engage in specific work activities in Kenya. This may include short-term employment, consultancy, or volunteer work. 

Additionally, Kenya approves eTA requests for travellers who want to enter its territories regarding diplomatic work, religious visits or transit purposes.

Who needs a Kenya eTA?

All foreign nationals who do not hold a passport from an eTA-exempt country need a Kenya eTA. This includes tourists, business travellers, students, and individuals planning to work or reside in Kenya. eTA requirements vary based on nationality and the purpose of travel.

About Kenya eTA

The Kenya eTA application can be completed online through our website at any time, 7 days a week. It is recommended to apply up to 7 days before to departure to minimize potential risks.

Important Reminders:

  1. When applying for a Kenya transit eTA online, ensure that you have an onward ticket.
  2. Business travellers should prepare an invitation letter and a copy of the company's registration.
  3. Make sure to attach a clear photograph and a copy of your passport's bio page, following the provided guidelines.
  4. Travellers under the age of 18 who wish to visit Kenya must also apply for an eTA along with a valid passport for entry into the country.
  5. Every traveller must individually apply for their own eTA, and children aged 18 and below must travel with their parents.

Types of eTAs in Kenya

In Kenya, there are several types of eTAs available depending on the purpose of your visit. The main categories include:

Kenya Transit eTA:

  • Single-entry permit for travelers in transit to other countries.
  • Allows leaving the airport for a maximum of 72 hours.
  • Validity: up to three days from arrival date.
  • Not required if staying in the airport or boarding a connecting flight.

Kenya Tourism eTA

  • Single entry permit for travellers
  • Validity upto 90 days
  • Issued for people who want to explore Kenya, visit their family or friends, who want to get married or spend their honeymoon

Kenya Business/Conference eTA

  • Single entry permit
  • For businessmen or travellers attending conferences
  • Validity up to 90 days

Kenya Work eTA

  • Single entry permit
  • For international citizens working/joining work in Kenya
  • Validity up to 90 days

Kenya Diplomacy eTA

  • Single entry permit
  • For international citizens on diplomatic or official work in Kenya
  • Validity up to 90 days

Kenya Religious Visit eTA

  • Single entry permit
  • For international citizens visiting Kenya for religious purposes or transiting through Kenya for religious purposes in other countries
  • Validity up to 90 days

Kenya eTA Requirements

To obtain a Kenya eTA, you will need to meet certain requirements. The specific requirements may vary depending on the type of eTA you are applying for, but some common requirements include:

Requirements to qualify for the eTA:

  1. A valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining.
  2. At least one blank page in the passport
  3. Recent passport-sized photographs.
  4. Proof of travel arrangements, such as flight bookings.
  5. Proof of accommodation in Kenya.
  6. Sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay.
  7. Yellow fever vaccination certificate (required for some nationalities).

Requirements that travelers need to observe during their stay in Kenya:

  1. Adherence to immigration rules and regulations.
  2. Respect for local customs and traditions.
  3. Compliance with the laws of Kenya.
  4. Respect for wildlife and the environment.

It's important to note that the immigration authorities may request additional documents or information as part of the.

Kenya eTA Requirements for a minor

Children always need their own passports. Children under the age of 18 require an eTA to travel to Kenya. If you are travelling with children under 18, it is important to indicate this information during the eTA application of one of the parents or guardians who will be accompanying them.

  • Clear copy of the minor's passport (bio page).
  • Passport-sized photograph of the minor.
  • Travel itinerary or proof of accommodation in Kenya.
  • Payment of applicable eTA fees.
  • Additional documents may be required depending on the purpose of travel (e.g., invitation letter, medical documents, etc.).

Entry :- 

  • Original birth certificate of the minor.
  • Signed and notarized consent letter from both parents or legal guardians.
  • Proof of parent's or legal guardian's identity (copy of passport or ID).
  • Copy of parent's or legal guardian's eTA or residence permit (if applicable)

Validity of Kenya eTAs

The validity of Kenya eTAs is for 90 days. Also, you have to apply for a fresh eTA every time you want to enter Kenya.

It's crucial to note that the duration of stay permitted on an eTA is different from its validity. The immigration officer at the port of entry will determine the length of stay based on the purpose of your visit and the type of eTA you hold.

Understanding the Online Kenya eTA Application Form

When filling out the online Kenya eTA application form, the following information is necessary:

Personal Information:

  • Full name (as it appears on your passport)
  • Gender
  • Date of birth
  • Nationality
  • Passport number
  • Passport issue and expiry dates
  • Place of birth
  • Marital status
  • Occupation

Contact Information:

  • Residential address
  • Phone number
  • Email address

Travel Information:

  • Purpose of visit (e.g., tourism, business, transit)
  • Expected date of arrival in Kenya
  • Departure date details
  • Port of entry (airport or border crossing)
  • Duration of stay in Kenya
  • Accommodation details (hotel name/address or contact person)
  • Customs declaration
  • Health declaration
  • Insurance information

Supporting Documents:

  • Scanned copy of your passport's bio page
  • Recent passport-sized photograph (according to specified requirements)

Additional Information:

  • Previous visits to Kenya (if applicable)
  • Details of any relatives or friends in Kenya (if applicable)
  • Any other relevant details or special requests

It's important to carefully review the application form and provide accurate information. Any incorrect or misleading information may lead to complications or eTA rejection.

How to Apply for a Kenya eTA?

Applying for a Kenya eTA is a simple online process:

Kenya eTA Online Application Process

To facilitate the entry of foreign nationals into Kenya, the Kenyan government introduced the eTA system, which allows travellers to apply for their travel permits online. Here is a step-by-step guide to the online application process:

  1. Visit the kenya eTA application form.
  2. Fill in the required personal and travel information accurately.
  3. Upload the necessary supporting documents, such as a scanned copy of your passport bio-data page, a recent passport-sized photograph, and your travel itinerary.
  4. Pay the eTA processing fee using a valid debit or credit card.
  5. Review the information you provided and submit your application.
  6. Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive an email notification containing your eTA.
  7. Carry a soft copy of your eTA to carry with you during your travel to Kenya.

Urgent Kenya eTA Application:

If you need to obtain a Kenya eTA urgently, there is an expedited processing option available. The expedited service allows you to fast-track your eTA application and receive a quicker response.

Obtaining an Urgent eTA for Kenya can be done online using the same application process as for a regular eTA. Simply select the urgent processing time option when filling out the application form. Your urgent application will receive top priority and be processed accordingly.

Kenya eTA Cost & Processing Time

The cost of obtaining a Kenyan eTA varies depending on the type of eTA and the applicant's passport nationality. It includes the eTA fee as well as an additional service charge for eTA applications. The service charge is determined based on the processing time required for the application.

To get an accurate estimate of your eTA application fee, please visit the designated fee calculation page.

Breakdown of Expenses:

  • eTA Fee: The eTA fee is determined by the category and the nationality of the applicant.

  • Service Charge: All eTA applications are subject to a service charge, which is calculated based on the processing duration.

For the exact eTA fee amount, please refer to the relevant Kenya eTA fee page.

Processing Types:

Currently, there are two processing types available for selection:

  1. Normal Processing: This is the standard processing option with a regular turnaround time.

  2. Rush Processing This is a super fast processing option which comes with an additional processing cost. (Coming soon)

The selection of the processing type directly affects the total fee associated with the eTA application.

Kenya eTA Renewal and Extension Procedures

If your Kenya eTA has expired and you wish to extend your stay or renew your eTA, you need to follow the renewal or extension procedures outlined by the Kenyan immigration authorities. It is important to note that overstaying your eTA without proper renewal or extension may lead to penalties, fines, or even legal consequences.

To avoid any issues, it is advisable to contact the immigration authorities or the Kenyan embassy or consulate in your home country to inquire about the specific requirements and procedures for renewing or extending your eTA.

Who is Eligible to Apply Online for Kenya eTA?

Kenya offers an eTA system that allows citizens of all countries (except a few who do not require eTAs) to apply for its eTA online. The eTA is a convenient and streamlined way to obtain a Kenya travel permit without having to visit an embassy or consulate. The eligible countries for the Kenya eTA :-

Add list here

eTA Exemption for Kenya

Kenya has eTA exemption agreements with several countries, allowing their citizens to enter Kenya without an eTA for a specified period. The duration of stay and the purpose of the visit may vary depending on the country of citizenship. It is essential to check the eTA exemption agreements between Kenya and your home country to determine whether you can enter Kenya without an eTA or if you need to apply for one before travelling.

Kenya Work eTA: Requirements and Application Process

To obtain a work eTA for Kenya, applicants must submit a completed application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photos, a cover letter from the employer, a contract of employment, educational certificates, a police clearance certificate, and proof of payment for eTA fees. The application is processed by the Department of Immigration.

How to Check the Status of Your Kenya eTA?

If you have applied for a Kenya eTA, you can check the status of your application online by following these steps:

  1. Visit the eTA website for Kenya.
  2. Navigate to the "Check Application Status" section.
  3. Enter the required information, such as your application reference number, document number and date of birth.
  4. Click on the "Submit" button to check the status of your eTA application.
  5. The system will provide you with the current status of your application, whether it is still under review, approved, or rejected.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is an official document that allows travellers to enter Kenya for various purposes, such as leisure, tourism, business, conferences, work, diplomatic missions, religious activities, and transit. Introduced to facilitate easier and more efficient entry into the country, it's a digital alternative to traditional visas, streamlining the application and approval process for visitors.

Most international travellers who wish to visit Kenya for short-term stays will need to obtain an eTA. However, there are exemptions for certain nationalities and specific categories of visitors. For example, citizens from countries that have visa exemption agreements with Kenya may not require an eTA. Similarly, diplomatic and official passport holders may also be exempted under specific bilateral agreements. It's important to check the latest requirements based on your nationality and the purpose of your visit.

Kenya offers several types of eTAs tailored to the diverse needs of travellers. These include eTAs for tourism, business, conferences, work, and transit. Each type has specific requirements. Generally, a Kenya eTA is valid for a single entry and allows a stay of up to 90 days.

Applying for a Kenya eTA is a straightforward online process. Applicants need to fill out the eTA application form available on the official Kenya eTA website, providing personal details, travel information, and the purpose of the visit. Key requirements include a valid passport, a digital passport-sized photo, and sometimes additional documents like an invitation letter or travel itinerary. Payment of the eTA fee is also required. It's essential to ensure that all provided information is accurate to avoid delays or rejections.

The processing time for a Kenya eTA varies but typically takes 3 working days. However, it's recommended to apply well in advance of your travel date to accommodate any unforeseen delays. For travellers who need to visit Kenya urgently, there is an option for expedited processing. This urgent application process incurs additional fees but ensures faster processing of the eTA, often within 24 hours.

Yes, there are special requirements for minors (children under the age of 18) applying for a Kenya eTA. They must have their eTA, which should be applied for by their parent or legal guardian. Required documents typically include a copy of the minor's birth certificate and consent letters from parents or guardians. It's important to comply with these requirements to ensure smooth entry into Kenya for minors.

Yes, it is possible to renew or extend a Kenya eTA, but this must be done within Kenya before the current eTA expires. The process involves applying for an extension at the Immigration Department in Kenya, where you will need to provide a valid reason for the extension and pay any applicable fees. The approval of extensions is at the discretion of the Kenyan Immigration authorities.

In the event of a Kenya eTA application rejection, travellers are advised to review the reasons for rejection, which are typically communicated by the authorities. Common reasons include errors in the application, missing documents, or not meeting the eligibility criteria. Applicants can reapply by addressing these issues or, if needed, apply for a traditional visa at a Kenyan embassy or consulate.

Applicants can check the status of their Kenya eTA application online through the official Kenya eTA portal. They will need to enter their application ID or passport number to access the status. Updates are provided in real-time, including notifications of approval, pending documents, or any additional information required.

Travellers with a Kenya eTA should remember to carry a printed copy of their approved eTA along with their valid passport when travelling to Kenya. They should also adhere to the conditions of their eTA, such as the purpose of the visit and duration of stay. Additionally, it's advisable to keep informed about any travel advisories or health regulations, especially in light of the ever-changing global travel environment.